Programs to detect and manage aging of instrumentation and control components for license renewal (nuclear plants)

Requirements for the renewal of commercial nuclear plant operating licenses are defined in 10CFR54, the License Renewal Rule. In a recent application of the Rule, over 1600 process instrumentation and control components were identified as important to license renewal. A grouping program was developed to break down the large populations into manageable, generic groups. Forty-six groups were selected based on component boundaries, design principles, environment, operating and maintenance history, and similar expectations for aging mechanisms and service life. Evaluations were then conducted on a group basis, to define significant aging mechanisms, review plant programs, and identify enhancements to ensure full coverage for the license renewal period.<>